This archive report was first published on 11 October 2021.
On October 10, 2021, France won the Nations League final with a 2-1 victory over Spain at the San Siro stadium. The match saw France's Kylian Mbappe score the winning goal, with Karim Benzema also finding the net.
Despite struggling to gain a foothold in the game during the first half, France came alive after going a goal down. With Paul Pogba's excellent midfield play, Mbappe's speed and movement, and Benzema's constant threat, the French team was good value for their victory.
Spain's young side, led by Luis Enrique, had played their trademark possession football with patience and precision but ultimately couldn't compensate for the absence of a genuine striker. The first half was a relatively subdued affair, with Spain moving the ball well but without dangerous penetration.
However, both sides were awoken after the break when France's Theo Hernandez thundered a shot against the underside of the bar. Spain responded with a clinical goal from Mikel Oyarzabal, but France's response was swift, with Mbappe finding Benzema who curled a brilliant shot into the far corner to make it 1-1.
Mbappe then grabbed the winner, racing on to a through ball from Hernandez and keeping his cool to slot past Unai Simon. Spain protested that Mbappe was offside, but the VAR check found a slight touch from defender Eric Garcia had played the France striker onside.
France had keeper Hugo Lloris to thank for two late saves as they held on for the victory against intense Spanish pressure.
France's Hugo Lloris lifts the trophy as they celebrate after winning the Nations League final on October 10, 2021. REUTERS
